Testimonials

By Amanda Smith Breon, Dancer, Arts Administrator, Apprentice - November 2003

Pilates has profoundly impacted my life. I came to Excel in February 2002, no more than a month after the death of my father. I came in to keep myself moving when dancing was the last thing that felt right. I was looking for a change in my physical "repertory."

Not only did I find what I was looking for in the pursuit of physical variety, but was pleasantly surprised in discovering the powerful affect that Pilates had on my mind and spirit. The stages of grief over my father's death were extremely debilitating for me and I was challenged by the smallest of tasks from getting out of bed to concentrating on my work. I felt half alive.

Pilates helped me to center my thoughts, anxiety, and grief enough to re-enter my world with energy and a sense of calm. I knew that I was more alive than I had been before my session - even if the sense of well-being lasted only for an afternoon. On my walks back to work I noticed my surroundings more than on my way there. I breathed a little easier, had a spring in my step. I no longer felt groggy. This gave me hope that I would smile again and eventually return to my life.

As a dancer, I have heard about this elusive "center" of the body for over 17 years. "Move from your center," "use your center," "engage your center..." What did this mean besides sucking in my stomach and holding my breath? I could never figure it out. Nothing worked. No form of cross training ever helped me find strength from my core or the alignment I needed to move efficiently, until I found Pilates.

Pilates has helped me to find this center and to re-pattern many of my unhealthy movement habits. I am stronger than ever and have gained a tremendous amount of confidence in working through challenges to see visible improvements.

Over time, I returned to dance. I am a much better dance teacher with new body knowledge. I find myself learning choreography more quickly and can concentrate with ease in my own dancing.

Spiritually, I have again found balance. I still grieve for my Dad, but with every full breath that I take, I am thankful to be alive and once again among the living.

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